Matthew 28:16-20: a reflection

16But the eleven disciples went into Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had sent them. 17When they saw him, they bowed down to him; but some doubted. 18Jesus came to them and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. 19Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

The eleven go to the mountain in Galilee where Jesus had told them to meet him. When they see him they worship, and Matthew adds an honest detail: but some doubted. Even here, at the threshold of the greatest commission, faith and hesitation stand side by side. Jesus does not wait for perfect certainty before he sends them. He comes to them as they are.

Then he speaks words that carry the whole mission of the church. All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to him, and on that basis he sends his followers to make disciples of all nations, baptizing and teaching. The command is vast, reaching to every people, but it is bracketed by comfort. It opens with his authority and closes with his presence: I am with you always, to the end of the age.

You may feel, like those first disciples, that your worship is mixed with doubt and your ability far too small for the task. Notice that Jesus commissions people exactly like that. He does not ask you to go in your own strength or your own certainty, but under his authority and in his company. Take one step of obedience today, however ordinary, trusting the promise that closes the Gospel: he is with you always.

Lord Jesus, all authority in heaven and on earth is yours, and yet you send people like me, whose worship is still mixed with doubt. Thank you that you do not wait for me to be certain or strong. Send me under your authority and keep your promise to be with me always. Give me courage for one faithful step today. Amen.